How to Test for Low Sperm Count

A healthy sperm count is an essential component for male fertility. Although a small amount of ejaculatory fluid may contain millions of sperm, only a few hundred of these are actually successful in reaching a woman's fallopian tubes during intercourse. When a man has a low sperm count, the number of successful sperm may decrease to almost zero.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Sperm sample

Test for Low Sperm Count

1. Talk to your doctor to find out whether you are an ideal candidate for semen analysis. Some doctors would prefer you to try to conceive on your own for at least twelve months before initiating testing, while others like to wait until the results are in on any female hormone tests.
2. Ask your doctor whether you need to give a sample in the lab or whether you can produce one in the comfort of your own home. Many labs now give men permission to obtain a sperm sample at home, where they can feel more relaxed.
3. Raise any concerns you may have at your visit with your doctor. You may have religious or privacy concerns which prohibit you from collecting a sample in the traditional way. In these cases, your doctor may be able to provide you with a suitable alternative, such as involving your partner or using a condom during intercourse to collect the sample.
4. Follow any and all instructions the lab gives you about the preservation of your test sample. For example, you may be required to keep your sample at body temperature. In some cases, the lab may provide you with a warming device or instruct you to keep the sample cup strapped to your body.
5. Understand infections could make your sperm count temporarily low. When you know you have an infection in the urinary or genital area, you may want to reschedule your test for a later date.

Tips & Warnings

• Ask for a retest if your sperm count comes back low, to rule out the possibility of lab error or infection causing abnormal results.
• Know exactly what a semen analysis tests before you give your sample. Most tests look for sperm count, mobility and shape, since all three can greatly affect fertility.
• When faced with the prospect of a semen analysis, many men feel inadequate or embarrassed. While it's normal to feel this way, keep in mind a semen analysis is a routine part of fertility treatment and is in no way an indicator of your abilities as a partner or potential father.